Hossam Ghaly is a veteran in the Egyptian national team, who was once regarded as one of the hottest prospects in Egyptian football. He’s solid central midfielder who can play both attacking and defensive roles. After starting his career at Al Ahly, he embarked on a European journey that saw him make stops at Feyenoord, Tottenham Hotspur and Derby County, before returning to Al Ahly via the Saudi club Al Nasr. His time in England exposed a major flaw: his questionable character. After being subbed by Tottenham boss Martin Jol after earlier coming on as a substitute himself in a 2007 Premier League game against Blackburn, he petulantly threw his shirt on the ground at Jol’s feet as he came off; bearing the full brunt of the fans’ anger. Exiled from the first team after that incident, a move to Birmingham later fell through after he complained about the amount of running in training.

Despite this, Ghaly is one of Egypt’s most well-rounded midfielders. A great passer with excellent vision and control, attributes which make him a calming presence when on the ball. He also plays with a never-say-die attitude, once losing several teeth in a match for Tottenham and staying on. Since returning to Al Ahly, his experience and leadership skills have been rewarded with the captain’s armband, despite having a few disciplinary problems with the club. He also possesses a powerful shot from distance and a tremendous header of the ball. Currently a regular member in Bob Bradley’s Egypt squad, although his spot in central midfield is no longer cemented with the consistent Hosni Abd Rabo and young Mohamed El Nenny usually starting in his place.